Japan Travel Guide

What is there to say about Japan? If you ask anyone what comes to mind first when they hear about it, their answers will very likely be sushi. But it goes without saying that Japan is much, much more. This beautiful island country is a homeland of many wonderful things.
Japan is a technological prodigy, yet it’s more connected to its roots and traditions than any other country. The richness of cultural heritage is impressive, to say the least.
Everything about the land of the rising sun is full of surprises. From the ultra-modern cities to the old, beautiful temples, peaceful gardens with a great sense of tranquility, shrines, Japan will keep you busy and amazed.
The country’s history is alluring and enigmatic with geishas, samurais, and emperors while it dominates the world today as a modern and technological hub.To sum it up- Japan is truly wonderfully unique.
Japanese are known as a hard working people who work around the clock tirelessly and have mastered kindness and hospitality.

City guides

Apart from that, Japan is a paradise for outdoor lovers. During the hot summer you can hike, and during the cold winter you can speed down the slopes. The beauty and diversity of the Nihon-kuku (Japanese name for Japan) are like a cherry on the cake. Almost literally, considering the famous images of thousands of blooming cherry trees.
Even though a bite of this cake is a bit costly (Japan is quite heavy on the budget), it’s a bite you won’t regret. Discover and enjoy everything it has to offer! Learn how to meditate and relax, master zen, sing, have a tea and let its traditions and habits help you grow personally.
To make your stay in this beautiful country easy, and enjoyable, let this short and informative travel guide help you around. Find out what is that you shouldn’t miss!

What to see and do in Japan

Go to Mount Fuji

This unbelievably peaceful and tranquil looking mountain is, in fact, an active volcano and the highest mountain in Japan. It’s located on Honshu island, and you can reach its peak during the official climbing season between July and August. There are several routes, and all are well marked, making your journey easier and enjoyable.Spend some time in the surroundings of the mountain. Visit a beautiful Fuji Five Lake resort, Hakone (a nearby hot spring resort), or a city of Fujinomiya.

Bathe in public

At a sento, a traditional Japanese public bath house. Their beginnings go back to a time when many didn’t have baths or similar facilities at home. Today they are more of a place of relaxation where people come to socialize. If you’re not too shy and don’t mind nudity, you should visit and take a peek into this old tradition.
A perfect way to end a day full of exploring is to soak in the onsen. These are hot springs that can be found indoor and outdoor.

Sing your heart out at karaokes

We all know karaoke, and we all know how much fun (or embarrassment) they can be, but did you know that they originated in Japan? So it only feels appropriate that you try it, and sing your heart out at one of the karaoke bars.

Have your way of tea

At sado. This is a traditional Japanese tea ceremony where you’ll learn about preparation and serving of iconic Japanese green tea, Matcha. As matcha craze is currently dominating the world, it only seems appropriate to attend it. After all, meditation isn’t the only way to relax and find inner peace. Drinking tea is a beautiful ritual and the right way to make it is an art. Have some typical sweets, such as mochi, with it to complete your experience.

Find your zen

At wonderful and serene gardens of Japan. Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa is believed to be one of the most beautiful ones. Another stunner is the Kawachi Fuji Garden. Here you walk under a wisteria tunnel- an astonishing tunnel of cascading flowers.

Pay respect at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

Visit the bomb memorial to learn more about this sad and tragic time in human history. It’s a good reminder that nothing like that should ever happen again.

Kabuki

Is an old and traditional Japanese form of theater dating back to the Edo Period. It has made it to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list for a reason. The flashy scenery, superbly made costumes, striking make-up, and last but not least, the vivid and exaggerated performance of the actors will impress you.

Experience Okinawa

The Japanese version of Hawaii. This slow-paced and stunningly beautiful island features gorgeous beaches and nature that will have you relaxed.

Travel costs

Accommodation

Dorm rooms cost around 23-36 USD per night. If you want to try sleeping in a capsule hotel, expect to pay between 27-45 USD per night. It’s a small, tiny pod, so it’s not suitable for those who are claustrophobic. Budget-friendly hotels charge around 80 USD for a double room. Just like anywhere else in the world, big cities are notably more expensive than small, rural areas. Airbnb is an option. Shared rooms cost roughly 27 USD per night, and having the entire apartment to yourself around 78 USD per night. Capsule hotels aren’t the only slightly different accommodations in Japan. A typical one is also so-called ryokan, a Japanese version of bed and breakfast. You’ll be able to experience sleeping on tatami mats and indulge in traditional Japanese breakfast. They are usually pricier than regular hotels, but the experience is worth it.

Food and drinks

Although the country is known for being very expensive, you don’t have to break the budget when it comes to eating. Eat at inexpensive places such as different noodle shops. Food usually costs between 2-12 USD. If you want to make own meals, you’ll need around 33-48 USD per week. Mid-range restaurants charge roughly 36 USD for a three-course meal that feeds two. You can opt for fast food meals with prices starting at 7 USD. Tap water is safe to drink. Bottled water costs less than a dollar, soft drinks around 1.20 USD, and coffeinated beverages some more than 3 USD. A pint of the domestic beer is around 4 USD. Don’t forget to try sake, a typical Japanese rice wine. Price depends on the size of the bottle and type.

Transportation

Getting around the country will cost you. While trains are super fast and reliable, they’re also very expensive. To get from Tokyo to Osaka can cost you up to 180 USD! Get a Japan Rail Pass if you plan on traveling by trains. Metro tickets cost 1-2.20 USD for a single journey. You can save some money by buying daily passes. This way you’ll be able to travel unlimited for a day. A price for such tickets is anywhere between 5.30-7 USD.

Inter-city buses charge around 20 USD on average. Japanese don’t tend to hitchhike but are happy to give a lift. Taxis are another pricey option to get around in cities.

Sights

You won’t have to pay to see the majority of museums and temples, although some popular places charge around 12 USD. It’s a different story with temples in Kyoto that can cost around 5-6 USD. Take advantage of the many free activities available, go to the parks and stroll around the streets to soak up cultural differences.